The Revenant [2015]

‘The Revenant’ was directed by Alejandro G. Inarritu [who also directed Birdman and Babel]. It won 3 golden globes, 3 academy awards, 5 BAFTA awards, and etc. The film is set in the 1820s when a frontiersman fights for his survival after being attacked by a grizzly and left behind by his team mate.

Let’s take a moment to admire the work of Emmanuel Lubezki: I can’t even express how in love I am with the lights and shots, considering that everything was filmed with natural lighting. I also loved the fact that the shots are mostly close-ups and the fact that Emmanuel chose to film with a 35mm lens; it emphasises the drama. Also, the use of long takes is a very nice choice, it gives the film a more realistic look, and makes the audience feel like they are part of the story.

On top of that, the location made the shots and the lighting even more astonishing; I mean seriously, the setting is gorgeous.

What’s more, the performances of the actors are just amazing; Tom Hardy’s acting as John Fitzgerald is breathtaking, I was also amazed by the performance of Domhnall Gleeson, compared to what I’ve seen in his other movies [Star Wars 7 and Ex Machina]. But definitely, Leonardo DiCaprio deserves an oscar for this role, because his acting is astounding; he is able to convey his character’s feelings through body movements and facial expressions, he doesn’t even need to talk for us to understand his character’s intentions and that is talent.

Another thing that I loved in the film is the pace: it is slow, so it highlights Hugh Glass’s horrible condition and it dramatizes the film even more.

Even though the story itself is basic, this film is one of the best for its visuals and acting. If you haven’t watched it, go watch it, it’s a must-see.